A Year to Remember, a New Year to Celebrate

As 2024 comes to an end, I would like us all to take a moment to reflect on our journeys. Let’s be grateful for the amazing foster carers, care staff, and leaders who share their vision and empower their teams to be the best versions of themselves. You are all truly angels on this earth.

Life brings its share of trials and tribulations, and nothing truly meaningful ever comes easy. Whatever this year has been for you, it’s okay to take things slow. Life can be busy and chaotic; we make mistakes and learn from them. The most important part is practicing self-forgiveness and striving for self-growth.

We don’t need to have everything planned. After my own personal losses, I stopped trying to plan everything and instead focused on being a good person and doing my best. External circumstances and internal conflicts can sometimes feel like they’re stalling us, but progress isn’t about being perfect or reaching the top—it’s about momentum. Taking risks, getting started, and contributing to something meaningful with the right intentions can make all the difference.

Our Progress values guide me every day. I believe that when we treat others with respect, love grows strong, and where there is love, there is a sense of safety.

If you believe in yourself, in what you’re doing, and in what you hope to achieve, no adversity is too great to overcome.

Please take time this festive season to check on family and friends who may have been quiet. For some, this can be a challenging time of year. To those facing difficulties or overcoming adversity, I hope things get better for you soon.

On behalf of the senior team at Progress, I wish you all blessings and happiness in the New Year ahead.

With love from
Tina Bhardwaj — Head of Children’s Services, Progress

Spreading Christmas Cheer Through Giving: Progress Raffle Supports Wolverhampton Food Bank

At Progress, the spirit of Christmas is not just about celebration but also about giving back. This year, the team organised a raffle for the Progress Festive party, turning a celebratory festive party into an opportunity to make a difference in the community. 

A raffle draw took place last Thursday before the Festive Party last Friday night at the head office. The event brought together team members from across Progress, including Bal Dhanoa MBE, Chief Executive Officer of Progress.

The raffle featured a delightful prize: a set of three mini-Yankee candles with a matching candle holder. The idea was simple yet impactful—create a fun, Christmassy event for Progress while raising funds to support local charities. As Meera, Business Administrator, Corporate and Commercial Services, Progress explained, “Sometimes it’s easier for people to donate money than to find time to shop for items, and this gave everyone a chance to contribute.” 

The raffle generated a modest but meaningful amount that was used to purchase food items for the local Wolverhampton Food Bank. With the food bank’s donation box looking sparse, the team decided to restock it with essentials, ensuring that more families in need could benefit during the holiday season. 

In total, nearly 30 raffle tickets were sold, and the lucky winner, Rachael, Hub Manager, took home the beautiful candle set. The true beneficiaries, however, are the individuals and families who rely on the Wolverhampton Food Bank for support. 

The team’s efforts highlight the power of small acts of kindness. By coming together, they not only brightened the office atmosphere but also contributed to the well-being of their community. The team overseeing the food bank donations, will ensure that all the items are delivered to the Wolverhampton Food Bank, which has been a focus of Progress’ charitable efforts. 

The festive party was a joyous occasion, celebrating the holiday season and the collective achievements of the Progress family throughout the year. It served as a reminder that giving back doesn’t always have to be grand to be impactful. It’s the collective spirit of compassion and generosity that makes the difference. As we continue to celebrate the season, let’s take a moment to reflect on the joy that comes from helping others—and let this inspire us to do even more in the coming year.